Building Creative Futures for Neurodivergent Young Adults
The Skyler M. Murphy Creative Futures Foundation was born from Skyler’s love of imagination, creativity, and innovation.
Inspired by Skyler’s vision, we provide a supportive makerspace where neurodivergent young adults can learn new skills, create meaningful projects, earn experience, and build confidence through hands-on technology, design, and entrepreneurship.
Our programs empower participants to discover their strengths, develop practical skills, and explore pathways toward greater independence, meaningful employment, and community engagement.
Creative Technology and Skill Development
Skyler’s Workshop provides hands-on learning experiences that help participants develop creative, technical, and workplace skills through real-world projects. Using industry-relevant tools and technologies, participants gain experience in design, fabrication, production, problem-solving, and collaboration while exploring their interests and strengths.
OUR OFFERING TO PARTICIPANTS
- 3D Printing & Digital Design
- Participants learn to transform ideas into physical products using computer-aided design (CAD) software and 3D printing technology. Through prototyping, product development, and iterative design, participants build technical skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence while bringing their concepts to life.
- Laser Engraving & Product Creation
- Participants gain experience designing and producing custom products using laser engraving technology. Working with materials such as wood, acrylic, glass, and ceramic, participants learn design principles, production workflows, branding, personalization, and product finishing techniques.
- Custom Products & Branded Merchandise
- Participants create customized products including apparel, drinkware, signage, promotional items, and gifts. Through graphic design, image preparation, and production processes, participants develop creative, technical, and entrepreneurial skills while contributing to real-world projects and customer orders.
Our Mission and Vision
Skyler’s Workshop provides an inclusive makerspace where autistic and neurodivergent young adults gain creative, technical, and entrepreneurial skills through hands-on learning, digital fabrication, and an earn-as-you-learn approach that supports meaningful work, community participation, and greater independence.
We envision a community where autistic and neurodivergent young adults have equitable access to opportunities that foster creativity, build confidence, and create lasting pathways to purpose, contribution, and independence.
Skyler’s Workshop bridges the gap between learning and meaningful work by providing access to creative technologies, mentorship, and real-world production experiences. Participants transform ideas into tangible products while developing practical skills, confidence, and pathways toward greater independence, community engagement, and employment.